BIRMINGHAM-born MC Bassman is back celebrating his annual Birthday Bash at the Custard Factory, joined by fellow drum and bass stars Fabio and Grooverider and Goldie.

BIRMINGHAM-born MC Bassman is back celebrating his annual Birthday Bash at the Custard Factory, joined by fellow drum and bass stars Fabio and Grooverider and Goldie.

The 4,000 capacity event will take place across the venue’s Warehouse space, marquee area and Med Bar and will feature national talent such as Nicky Blackmarket alongside homegrown stars such as Birmingham’s MC Magika.

Ahead of the event, Bassman tells us why the annual birthday bash in Birmingham is so important to him.

“It means everything to me,” he says. “This is where I was born and bred and where my musical journey began.

“From here, I’ve had the opportunity to travel the UK and the world doing what I love and that’s something I feel blessed about.

‘‘I’m honoured to have had my birthday celebrations held here since 2006 and I never imagined it would grow to the size and popularity it has today.

“It’s amazing that with almost 30 years in the music industry and at the age of 45 I still have a following which is forever growing.”

He adds: “We get people of all ages. Mums and dads who used to come to my shows and events back in the day are now coming with their kids.

“Youngsters have grown up listening to my tapes and CDs from their older brothers and sisters, too. The event itself is like a family day out at the carnival. It’s really special.

“I even dress up in a different theme every year. Last year I dressed as Batman, wearing a suit that was made in Hollywood. The year before that I was Superman. This year’s theme is the Incredible Hulk, so expect the unexpected.”

He adds: “This year, we have world class superstars with Goldie, Fabio and Grooverider from Radio 1, Hazard, Danny Byrd from Hospital Records, Nicky Blackmarket, Bryan G and many, many more. There are three arenas of music with something for everyone, old and new.”

And Bassman says he will carry on hosting his birthday events for as long as he’s able, so it should have a long future.

“I feel very fit, my voice is still strong, my vocal chords work very well still. I think there’s no age limit to music as long as you’re fit and healthy and have an audience. Look at Tom Jones and Rod Stewart.”